Abstract: An apparatus for processing a film includes a conveyor and an isolated takeaway device. The conveyor includes gripping members that hold opposing edge portions of the film and convey, under influence of a drive member, the film along a machine direction within a stretching region of the apparatus. The conveyor, over substantially the entire stretching region, is configured and arranged to provide diverging, substantially parabolic paths along which the gripping members move to stretch the film. The isolated takeaway device receives the film from the conveyor and includes gripping members to grasp opposing takeaway regions of the film directly from the stretching region and convey the film in the machine direction. In another embodiment, the conveyor provides diverging curvilinear paths along which the gripping members move to stretch the film. An isolated takeaway device includes opposing flexible, continuous gripping mechanisms for grasping opposing takeaway regions of the film.

Abstract: Stretched polymeric films can be used in a variety of applications, including optical applications. The stretching conditions and shape of the stretching tracks in a stretching apparatus can determine or influence film properties. Take-away systems can be used to receive the film after stretching. The configuration of the take-away system can, in at least some instances, influence final film properties.

Abstract: Stretched polymeric films can be used in a variety of applications, including optical applications. The stretching conditions and shape of the stretching tracks in a stretching apparatus can determine or influence film properties. Methods and stretching apparatuses can include adjustable or zone-defined stretching regions.

Abstract: Stretched polymeric films can be used in a variety of applications, including optical applications. The stretching conditions and shape of the stretching tracks in a stretching apparatus can determine or influence film properties. Take-away systems can be used to receive the film after stretching. The configuration of the take-away system can, in at least some instances, influence final film properties.

Abstract: Stretched polymeric films can be used in a variety of applications, including optical applications. The stretching conditions and shape of the stretching tracks in a stretching apparatus can determine or influence film properties. Methods and stretching apparatuses can include adjustable or zone-defined stretching regions.

Abstract: A process for stretching films is described. The process preferably stretches films in a uniaxial fashion. Preferably, optical films are stretched including multilayer optical films. Other aspects of the invention include a roll of stretched film and an apparatus for stretching films.